From the Director

Friends,

It has been a long year, but as we reflect on all that has happened, don't forget to celebrate the good along the way. Next week (May 2-8) is Public Service Recognition Week, and the PPMC is celebrating. 

We have two amazing speakers lined up to inspire and celebrate public service: Dr. Lee Norman and Dr. Kaye Monk-Morgan. There are also several activities and announcements planned to further recognize the importance of working toward the public good. We hope you can join us! 

See more information about PSRW below, and don't forget to RSVP and share with your networks. 

Best Wishes,

Misty Bruckner
Director 

Project Updates

Check out our ongoing projects!
  • Lawrence-Douglas County Emergency Services (COMPLETE!) | Helped both communities reach a more efficient and equitable service agreement for Fire and EMS services. 
  • Sedgwick County Fleet | Conducted thorough research to ensure the County's fleet of vehicles is optimal and well-planned.
  • City of Herington (COMPLETE!) | Conducted a Board Planning Session to focus the City's priorities for the future.  
  • City of Halstead (COMPLETE!) | The City partnered with Harvey County and the City of Sedgwick to deliver training on communication and teambuilding.
  • Marion County (COMPLETE!)Conducted a Board Planning Session to focus the County's priorities for the future. 
  • Early Literacy | Born out of a Project Wichita initiative, the PPMC and partners are working to promote reading before Kindergarten. Check out this brochure in distribution. 
Updates
PSRW
Click to Enlarge

Celebrate Public Service with the PPMC! 

It's almost Public Service Recognition Week, and we're ready to celebrate. Join us all week long. 

Monday at 3:00 pm | Dr. Lee Norman shares about living a life dedicated to public serve that led him to confront a pandemic. Register Here!

Thursday all day | It's #ThankfulThursday so we're giving shout outs and encouragement all day long on social media! Who Inspires YOU?

Friday at 1:00 pm | Dr. Kaye Monk-Morgan shares about her journey in public service and encouragement for the future. Afterward, the Wichita Federal Executive Association and Wayne Bell will announce the winners of the Annual Make a Difference Awards. Register Here!

Thank you, Adrienne Byrne and WPS! 

What an amazing luncheon we had last Thursday. Sedgwick County Health Department Director Adrienne Byrne discussed the leadership lessons she has learned during COVID-19. 

WPS Workplace Sexual Harassment Survey 

How well does your company handle sexual harassment?
How problematic is harassment in your workplace? 

Important public conversations about workplace sexual harassment have been taking place nationally and locally, and Women in Public Service wants to know how the issue affects our local public service organizations. 
 
The survey is anonymous and confidential.
 

How are you spending your 
American Rescue Plan Act funding? 

Get your priorities in order with a strategic plan. The PPMC conducts strategic plans for a range of organizations from small departments to entire metropolitan areas. These plans help set the future direction of the organization and help create focus in the right areas. Interested? Email us to learn more!
 
Check out the Latest PPMC Blog!
Team Member Spotlight: Angeline Johnson
By PPMC

Get to know our newest team member: Community Development Manager Angeline Johnson. Angeline joined the PPMC in March 2021 and is an invaluable member of the team... Read More
Fight Every Day
By Guest Blogger Aliex Kofoed

The PPMC's work to advance the public good takes many forms, one of which is the management of the Kansas Caregivers Support Network (KCSN). The KCSN supports caregivers of children in foster, kinship or other care. Aliex is our Kansas Caregivers Support Network President.
Next month is National Foster Care Month. Stories from youth in foster care can be difficult, but as community leaders, please take time to understand the need, support and impact to our must vulnerable populations... Read More
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Update
 
We Remain Committed.

The PPMC has given thought to how or what we can do to be part of the solution of change for equity and inclusion. We ask ourselves, "What is our role in helping organizations and communities address systemic racism, exclusion and inequity? How do we help move beyond words of outrage to actions of impact?" The short answer is we are not sure AND we are committed to figuring it out.

How to talk to children about diversity, equity, and inclusion. 


An ABC of Equality
Ages 0-5

We're Different, We're The Same 
Ages 3-7

I Am Enough 
Ages 4-8

New Kid 
Ages 8-12

  • Start Young: By 3 months, children notice physical differences. Use this as an opportunity for early education about race and the value of being different from one another. 
  • Books: Books are always a good tool to teach children, and this is no exception. 
  • Play: Toys, art, and music aren't just fun, they're also educational. 
  • Set an Example: Children learn and create biases based on your behavior and bring them into the world. 
  • Talk About It: Advocacy is your responsibility for the children in your life. 
Resources & Information Linkslinks

Organizational Resources on Racism & Inclusion
Wichita State University Public Policy & Management Center  |  wichita.edu/ppmc
STAY CONNECTED: